In 2025, the last of the Boomers turn 60, and some Gen Xers are hitting the big 5-0. Whether you're considering retirement or already making plans for your golden years, you’ve likely realized this is a big transition. For those of us who have already taken the leap, retirement is what you make of it, and it can be both exciting and daunting.
To make sure retirement isn’t just a long vacation but a rewarding new chapter, here are 10 pieces of advice to help you step into 2025 and beyond with confidence and a smile.
Your time is now your own, use it wisely.
Your working years were all about making money, but in retirement, time is your most valuable asset. Spend it on what brings you joy, purpose, and connection.
• Just like Santa, make a list and check it twice, but make a list of things you’ve always wanted to do, you don’t need a naughty and nice list yet unless you are preparing your will.(😉)
• Try a hobby, or pick up an old one—macrame, anyone?
• Build a morning routine you enjoy (yes, this can include coffee and crossword puzzles, my routine includes coffee, Wordle, Connections and the Mini crossword).
Think of your time like a budget: spend it where it counts, and save the rest for what matters most.
Retirement: Your Launchpad for Life’s Next Adventure
Think of retirement as the starting gate for your next big adventure.
• Want to learn a new skill or take a part-time job? Go for it!
• Explore volunteering or joining a social club.
• Make a bucket list—not just for travel, but for experiences that light you up.
Remember, if it’s all too overwhelming, start with one small step. You don’t have to reinvent yourself overnight.
Ease the Transition
A sudden halt from full-speed work to full-stop retirement can feel like slamming the brakes on a speeding car. An interim project, something engaging and meaningful, can help smooth the ride.
• Write your memoirs (your grandkids will love to read it someday).
• Start a vegetable garden (bonus points if you get the neighbors hooked on your tomatoes).
• Learn a new language and plan a trip to show off your skills.
Spend on what you care about
You’ve worked hard for your money, so spend it on what truly matters.
• Invest in experiences over things.
• Treat your health as the most important asset in your portfolio.
• Enjoy life now, but keep an eye on the future (your 85-year-old self will thank you).
Splurge a little—but skip the gold-plated golf cart.
Create a “New Normal” Routine
Without work setting the alarm clock, it’s easy to drift. We all need a reason to get up in the morning and face the day. So start by building a routine that balances relaxation and purpose.
• Schedule time for exercise, hobbies, and socializing.
• Set goals—weekly, monthly, or just for today.
• Stay flexible—this is your time, not a to-do list marathon.
Social Connections Are Your Secret Weapon
Retirement can sometimes feel isolating if you’re not intentional about staying connected.
• Reconnect with friends and family you’ve missed.
• Join a group, whether it’s book clubs, walking clubs, or even bird-watching enthusiasts.
• Get tech-savvy. My brothers and I have a scheduled meeting once a month and we talk for about 40 minutes to catch up on how we are doing, how are families are and what new things we are into. I love the contact with my brothers and I thought I would never say this but a Zoom call counts as quality time. Friendships are the spice of life—don't let them go stale.
Keep Your Mind Sharp—Because Trivia Nights Are Fierce
Your brain needs exercise, too!
• Pick up puzzles, crosswords, or strategy games.
• Take an online class or attend local workshops.
• Stay curious—ask questions, explore, and never stop learning. I found that since I retired and I have white hair, asking questions is easier and for the most part, people are inclined to answer, although very few can be condescending.
Plus, it gives you an edge when competing for the trivia championship at the local pub or legion
Embrace Your Inner Adventurer
Every day was an adventure, remember when you were younger and every day was new and exciting. A great mindset which you can now tap into to see the world with a new vision.
• Travel doesn’t have to mean jet-setting—explore local parks, museums, or road trips. Travel can be playing tourist in your own town or city and looking at where you live as a tourist might see it. This can lead to finding a new coffee shop or bakery or restaurant you never knew existed.
• Try something new that feels a little daring—salsa dancing, anyone?
• Give yourself permission to dream big.
Change Takes Time
Retirement is messy, confusing, and emotional. That’s perfectly normal. There are stages of retirement and the first is messy and confusing, but if you are not too hard on yourself, you will make it through this stage and look back and wonder at what you did.
• Take time to decompress—you’ve earned it.
• Experiment with new activities, knowing it’s okay if some don’t stick.
• Treat yourself with patience and humour—nobody becomes a retirement pro overnight. I have been retired since 2006 and I am still learning about this stage, so, think of this as your “trial and error” phase.
Keep Laughing
Laughter really is the best medicine, and gratitude makes everything sweeter.
• Celebrate the little wins—your first perfect pancake flip deserves applause. By doing this you are setting a wonderful example for your children and your Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren.
• Share your joys (and your bloopers) with loved ones.
• Practice gratitude for this new chapter—it’s a gift, wrinkles and all.
Retirement isn’t about slowing down; it’s about choosing your own pace. You’ve got the tools, the time to learn how to use them, and the wisdom. Now, go make this next chapter your best one yet!
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